2004 MXZ 600 HO Idle & Starting Issues

[sledhead17]

I'm having idle problems with my sled.

Sometimes, I get it started but I can't get it to idle. It's dying on me. Putting it in reverse is also killing the engine due to the idle issue.

Also, it's taking a lot of pulls to get her started, especially when temperatures are above 25 degrees. I have to have it in full choke and give it a lot of gas some days to get her started.

Any advice for a tech novice? Is it a matter of carb cleaning or adjustment or do I need to take it into the shop?

Thanks in advance for the advice.

 

[doospunk]

You can start by simply trying to adjust the idler screw upwards. Unfortunately, I doubt that's the issue as the symptoms your describing are common among doos when there's low compression (flaking or damaged piston rings), rip in the carb boots, or dirtly carbs/pilots.

If you've got access to a compression tester, start with that and make sure you've got good compression to both sides. If so, you can eliminate the notorious ring issue, and proceed to a thorough inspection of the carb boots (the stock ones were known to tear, wear and rot in many instances.) Ripped boots will cause a lean condition which will lead to a burn down, though because your idling so poor, I'd guess it to either be rings or carbs/pilots.

I had an 03 and still have an 04 rev. Both had the same symptoms at one point, and turned out to be the rings in both instances.

 

[Skidooski]

I will agree. I have two 2004 rev 600s. The 03s and 04s were notorius for ring flaking. One of mine, I had to replace the rings with less then 1000 miles on it. Hard starting and stalling when going into reverse are the common symptoms.

 

[sledhead17]

Thanks guys

Thanks for the advice. I'm going to take it in and have it checked out. Compression, carbs, rings are serious business and I'm not up to the task! I appreciate the feedback.